FROM single-handedly bringing sideburns back into fashion, to rocketing membership of bicycle clubs, the “Bradley Wiggins effect” is taking hold in East Lancashire.

The Olympic time trial gold medallist and Tour de France winner is set to make one of his first public appearances since the victory at the charity ‘Ride with Brad’ event through Pendle and Ribble
Valley.

The British Cycling Club has reported signing up 1,500 new members on the same day as his Olympic triumph, and hundreds from the area are expected to join Wiggins on Sunday, August 19 for the ride.

Included in the 160km route is Barley Fell, Waddington Fell, the Nick o’ Pendle, Trough of Bowland, and Longridge Fell.

Wiggins is based in Eccleston, near Chorley, and regularly trains along these routes.

Famous for his “mod” style, Wiggo has been relaxing after his cycling triumphs by joining the London party scene where, earlier this week, he met his musical hero, Paul Weller.

The 32-year-old spent his evening partying with the former Jam front man, and also posed for pictures with heptathlete Jessica Ennis, who also won gold.

Wiggins has also proved he’s a cut above the rest by setting a new trend with his oversized sideburns.

Tina Williams, Bradley’s barber, said she has been regularly asked to give people ‘the Wiggins’ look.

Tina, who runs Tina’s Barbers, in The Green, Eccleston, said Wiggins goes in with his children for a trim.

She said: “Normally he has a number two, but last time he just had a light trim.

“He is desperate for a haircut now. I just wish he would let me give him a trim now that he’s getting all this media attention.

“I have had lads in their 20s coming in asking for big, long sidies like Wiggins.

“More and more people are requesting them.

“I know there are a few in the village growing them.

“He just pops in and waits in the queue. I never ask for autographs, or pictures, and I charge him like everyone else.”

Blackburn’s former superbikes champion Carl Fogarty, 46, has also jokingly said he is to grow the “super-sidies” to help him go faster on two wheels.

‘Ride With Brad’ will raise money for the Bradley Wiggins Foundation, which aims to promote participation in sport and exercise.